A triplet is when beat is split into three notes, instead of the typical two or four, as shown here: Hi hat triplets are pretty much standard in most modern hip hop beats at this point, usually mixed in with a straight hi hat pattern and coming in at different points to add variety. So how do we achieve that perfect balance of flow, rhythm, and tempo and still humanize your drums? Not just listening, but paying attention to when every percussion hits, how they change subtle things from bar to bar to keep it interesting, and how they use silence in certain parts to create space. Studying the beats that inspire you is a very underrated way to learn how to structure your own productions.

One of the most important things for a hip hop producer to keep in mind is that there will need to be space in the mix for someone to rap on. You want your 808 bass to carry a heavy low-end, but also be felt through your laptop speakers (which are not very good at projecting low end). One secret to a thick 808 bass is saturation. The groove is achieved by the switch-ups from the basic pattern to 32nd or 8th note sections.

In modern hip hop, it’s commonplace to find a 16th note pattern for the hi hats, while the open hats are placed in the offbeat.

As a general rule, you don’t want the frequencies of the kick and bass clashing with each other, which means you don’t want them playing at the same time. The relationship between the kick and bass is important in any genre of music but specifically so in hip hop. It may sound easy, but it can take years to reach the level where you know exactly what sample will sound the best for your beat - and where to find it in your files - and do it quickly (we’re talking 5-10 seconds). Having an ear to choose the right samples in any situation is one of the most important skills of a talented music producer.

Hip hop drum patterns fl studio